Top 10 Best Financial Advisors in Fargo, North Dakota

If you want to embark on a prosperous financial journey, you need the appropriate guidance and proficiency. Whether it’s retirement planning or investment management, the expertise of a reliable financial advisor can truly make a significant impact.

Within this article, we delve into the realm of finance in Fargo, North Dakota, to present a thoughtfully curated list of the best 10 financial advisors in the region. Our selection is the result of meticulous local research, focusing on advisors celebrated for their extensive knowledge, comprehensive range of services, and notable accomplishments.

With these esteemed financial advisors, you can anticipate unique solutions tailored to meet your distinct requirements, empowering you to flourish amidst today’s ever-evolving financial landscape.

Join us as we examine the profiles of these exceptional professionals and explore how their expertise can assist you in confidently and successfully navigating your financial objectives.

Why Do You Need Financial Advice in Fargo?

Making sound financial decisions is crucial for achieving your goals. While managing your finances independently may work for some, there are circumstances where hiring a financial advisor can be beneficial.

• Complex Financial Situation: If your finances has become intricate, a financial advisor can help you navigate the complexities. They have the expertise to create a comprehensive financial strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.
• Lack of Time or Expertise: Balancing work, family, and personal commitments can leave little time for managing your finances effectively. A financial advisor can alleviate the burden by handling various financial tasks, such as portfolio management, researching investment options, and staying updated on market trends, allowing you to focus on other priorities.
• Long-Term Goals: Whether it’s saving for retirement, funding your child’s education, or planning for a major life event, a financial advisor can help you develop a roadmap to achieve your long-term goals.
• Investment Guidance: If you’re new to investing or lack confidence in making investment decisions, a financial advisor can guide you. They can assess your risk tolerance, recommend suitable investment options, and ensure your portfolio aligns with your financial objectives.
• Financial Transitions: Significant life events like marriage, divorce, inheritance, or starting a business can bring about complex financial transitions. A financial advisor can offer objective advice during these times, helping you make informed decisions and navigate potential challenges.

In these circumstances, hiring a financial advisor can provide peace of mind and improve your financial outcomes. Consider consulting with a trusted financial advisor to assess your specific needs and explore how their expertise can support your financial journey.

How Can You Accomplish Financial Planning

Crafting an effective financial plan is crucial for long-term financial stability. Consider the following options:

1.   Embrace online self-directed platforms

Take control of your financial journey by utilizing online platforms that empower you to oversee your investments independently. This choice often leads to cost savings by eliminating intermediaries involved in transactions.

2.   Utilize the expertise of a financial advisor

Just like Fargo CPA, engaging a personal financial planner or wealth manager can yield promising outcomes, despite associated expenses. Research suggests that partnering with a financial advisor has the potential to enhance long-term portfolio returns by 1.5% to 4%.

Payment Structures of Fargo Financial Advisors

Understanding payment models is essential when choosing a financial advisor in Fargo. Here are commonly used fee structures:

Hourly Fee: Clients are billed based on the time dedicated to addressing their financial matters, regardless of their asset value.

Retainer Fee: Financial advisors charge a predetermined fee per month or year, ensuring their availability for advisory services covered by the retainer.

Flat Fees: These fixed fees encompass financial planning and asset management services and are not influenced by the size of the investor’s account.

Commission: Advisors earn a percentage of the funds expended when purchasing high-performing investments, typically assessed per transaction.

Asset Management Fee: Investors pay fees based on the amount they have invested, deducted directly from their accounts.

Which Payment Structure is  Best?

Careful consideration of potential conflicts of interest is vital when selecting a payment structure for your financial advisor. Choosing an inappropriate payment structure can have negative effects on your financial well-being.

For optimal outcomes, a commission-based fee structure tends to be more favorable. In this structure, the financial advisor earns a portion of the investment growth, incentivizing them to prioritize your financial success.

It is crucial to select a payment model that aligns with your goals and ensures your advisor’s incentives are aligned with your best interests.

5 Factors When Picking the Right Financial Advisor in Fargo

When selecting a financial advisor in Fargo, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. These factors will help you make an informed decision and choose an advisor who aligns with your financial goals and priorities.

Qualifications and Credentials

Look for financial advisors who hold relevant qualifications and certifications, such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). These designations indicate a certain level of expertise and adherence to professional standards.

Experience and Track Record

Consider the advisor’s experience and track record. Find out how long they have been practicing as a financial advisor and inquire about their areas of specialization or expertise.

Services Offered

Evaluate the range of services offered by the advisor. Do they provide comprehensive financial planning, investment management, retirement planning, or specialized services? Ensure that the advisor’s offerings align with your specific needs and requirements.

Fiduciary Duty

Inquire whether the financial advisor operates as a fiduciary. A fiduciary has a legal and ethical obligation to act in your best interest. This ensures that the advisor will prioritize your needs rather than their own.

Clientele and Referrals

Consider the advisor’s clientele and seek referrals or testimonials from their existing clients. This can provide insights into their reputation, professionalism, and ability to deliver satisfactory results.

Fee Structure

Understand the financial advisor’s fee structure and compensation model. Some advisors charge a percentage of assets under management, while others have a fee-based or hourly fee structure. Ensure you are comfortable with the fees and understand how they may impact your overall investment returns.

Personal Connection

Schedule an initial consultation or meeting with potential advisors to gauge your personal rapport and communication style. A good working relationship and effective communication are essential for a successful partnership.

By considering these key factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting a financial advisor in Fargo who is best suited to help you achieve your financial goals.

10 Best Financial Advisors in Fargo, North Dakota

Delve into the best financial advisors in Fargo who are committed to guiding you to financial success. With their vast knowledge, expertise, and full commitment to excellent service, the following FAs have built a good reputation for providing sound financial guidance.

1. Financial Strategies Group

The Financial Strategies Group is your pathway to financial success. In a landscape where financial concerns are pervasive, Americans grapple with budgeting, investments, and retirement worries. Established in 1987 by Mark Young, a seasoned Financial Advisor and his partner, the company has mastered business management, financial investment, risk management, and retirement planning.

With a mission to provide empowering financial plans, clients gain the tools to make informed decisions. Boasting a legacy of expertise, Financial Strategies Group offers services encompassing Financial Planning, Insurance Planning, Investment Management, Retirement Planning, and Education Planning.

Financial Strategies Group
1220 28th Ave N
Fargo, ND 58102
Phone: 701-234-0103
https://finstrat.com/

2. Prairiewood Wealth Management

Prairiewood Wealth Management is a dedicated partner in simplifying and enhancing clients’ financial futures. With a focus on individuals and families seeking comprehensive wealth management, Prairiewood Wealth Management stands out by addressing a pivotal aspect of financial planning: taxes.

The firm is committed to creating a holistic financial approach by offering full-service investment management, integrated estate, insurance, charitable planning, and proactive tax strategies. Its mission is securing and optimizing clients’ resources, ultimately building a lasting legacy.

Prairiewood Wealth Management’s specialized role as a Family Chief Financial Officer (CFO) ensures a dedicated approach to navigating investment intricacies, personal finance, and tax planning. With an unwavering commitment to guiding principles, it caters to families with a net worth ranging from $1M to $50M, providing tailored financial strategies for evolving needs.

Prairiewood Wealth Management
3981 4th Street E
West Fargo, ND 58078
Phone: (701) 234-0521
www.pw-wm.com

3. Light Financial Services

Light Financial Services is catering to North Dakota and its surrounding area is regarded as the beacon of financial guidance in investing and planning. As an independent and fee-only firm, Light Financial places clients’ objectives at the heart of its advisory services.

The company takes pride in offering insights that lead to future financial achievements. Specializing in independent, fee-only financial planning and investment management, Light Financial Services is dedicated to providing transparent and impartial financial planning and investment management solutions.

With featured services spanning comprehensive financial planning, proficient portfolio management, and specialized 403(b) consultations, Light Financial Services adopts the fee-only model to ensure a conflict-free approach. By choosing Light Financial, clients opt for clarity, integrity, and a secure financial trajectory.

Light Financial Services
3575 45th St S. Suite 112
Fargo, ND 58104
Phone: 701-356-5106
www.lightfinancialservices.com

4. Complete Investment Advisory, LLC

Complete Investment Advisory, LLC is a company where fiduciary responsibility is paramount. With a client-centric approach, the firm places clients’ needs at the forefront, offering prudent financial advice to pave the way toward their financial aspirations.

As an independent, fee-based, registered advisory firm, Complete Investment Advisory takes pride in skillfully managing your financial objectives with utmost tax efficiency.

The firm’s mission centers on aiding individuals and institutions in navigating life’s financial challenges, backed by a commitment to achieving your financial goals. Focusing on comprehensive financial planning, the team ensures your unique lifestyle and aspirations are the driving forces, adapting your plan as circumstances evolve.

Complete Investment Advisory, LLC
3211 Fiechtner Drive
Fargo, ND 58103
Phone: 701-277-9392
www.completeinvestmentadvisory.com

5. Legacy Wealth Management

Legacy Wealth Management helps in guiding the financial pathway for clients. At Legacy Wealth Management, each team member understands individuals’ unique financial challenges at different life stages. Its collaborative approach dismantles the complexities of securing the ideal future.

Whether retirement, college savings, or estate planning, the personalized service centers on the client’s needs and financial ambitions. With over a century of combined financial services experience, its experts harmonize their proficiency with client goals, fashioning a robust financial strategy that’s more attainable than perceived.

Legacy Wealth Management
3409 45th St. S. Suite 104
Fargo, ND 58104
Phone: 701-365-8083
www.legacywealthfargo.com

6. Cindy Magnuson, Financial Advisor

Meet Cindy Magnuson, the client’s trusted Edward Jones Financial Advisor. With a commitment to comprehending all financial objectives before investing, Cindy collaborates with clients’ professionals to tailor the optimal financial strategy for them and their families.

Her expertise in retirement savings strategies ensures clients have a range of choices for retirement, irrespective of their plans. Beginning her Edward Jones journey in 2008 as a Fargo-based financial advisor, Cindy has garnered prestigious awards, including the Ted Jones Prospecting Award, Ted Jones Entrepreneurial Award, Region Leader Award, and Spirit of Partnership Award.

A Minnesota State University Moorhead graduate in business administration, Cindy actively participates in community networks like Women In Networking (WiN), Business Networking International (BNI), Business Connections, the Chamber, and Fargo Rotary. Cindy’s expertise spread in retirement income, savings, business plans, estate strategies, wealth, and divorce finances – a dedication rooted in Edward Jones’ ethos since 2008.

Cindy Magnuson, Financial Advisor
3280 Veterans Blvd S Suite 240
Fargo, ND 58104 
Phone: (701) 232-2091
www.edwardjones.com

7. Private Wealth Group – Raymond James

Private Wealth Group offers sophisticated financial strategies on a personal scale. As a global financial firm, it prioritizes providing trusted advice and customized solutions for individuals and institutions. The focus extends beyond simple asset allocation, encompassing comprehensive planning for all aspects of the client’s life.

Private Wealth Group advisors craft detailed long-term plans that address the complexities of life’s journey. In serving corporations and institutions, the company offers robust capabilities rooted in personalized service.

As a leading full-service investment firm in North America, it provides a complete range of capital market services, strategic advice, and tailored planning for every stage of a business’s lifecycle. Private Wealth Group remains agile and maintains a personal approach to meet the unique needs of growth companies and the institutional and retail communities investing in them.

Private Wealth Group – Raymond James
1555 43rd St S Suite B
Fargo, ND 58103-3314
Phone: 701.205.4820
www.raymondjames.com/privatewealth

8. First International Investments

First International Investments is an active partner for clients in navigating their financial journey. The company is a trusted ally for individuals, families, and small businesses seeking guidance through the complexities of the financial realm. Built on a foundation of care, integrity, and financial expertise, the firm crafts personalized plans that form strong and enduring partnerships.

For individuals, the spectrum of services extends from shaping future education plans for children to navigating the nuances of Social Security. First International Investments offers unwavering support to cover retirement, income distribution, legacy strategies, investments, pension analysis, cash flow management, tax optimization, insurance solutions, and charitable planning.

Small businesses find tailored assistance, too, with services encompassing business retirement plans, farm/ranch retirement strategies, buy/sell agreements, exit strategies, key-man insurance planning, and asset transfers. The firm understands the value of family-oriented businesses and strives to simplify complex decisions while optimizing performance. At the core of First International Investments’ philosophy lies the aspiration to see every client succeed. Conversations commence with a deep understanding of individual priorities, resulting in custom plans that align with unique goals. The firm’s dedication extends beyond standard advice – cultivating enduring partnerships aimed at shared accomplishments.

First International Investments
1350 13th Avenue East
West Fargo, ND 58078
Phone: 701.499.7631
www.investfargo.com/

9. Angie McCarthy

Led by Angie McCarthy, a Certified Financial Planner professional with notable designations including CDFA® and CRPC™, McCarthy Wealth Strategies operates as a private wealth advisory practice under the umbrella of Ameriprise Financial Services. Angie approaches each client’s aspirations individually and is dedicated to providing customized financial solutions.

Recognizing the significance of a client’s financial goals, McCarthy Wealth Strategies delves into your unique needs, whether securing a child’s education, envisioning retirement, making prudent investments, or other financial pursuits. Angie’s personalized advice offers confidence to tackle expected and unexpected life events. A testament to fostering collaboration, McCarthy Wealth Strategies partners with local accounting and CPA firms like SecurEdge Tax Strategies, amplifying its commitment to community financial well-being.

Guided by a mission to simplify financial complexities, Angie ensures her clients gain control, reduce stress, and experience financial tranquility. Her tailored services, underpinned by comprehensive advice, investment strategies, and modern technology, pave the way for clients to achieve their financial objectives while adapting to life’s dynamics. With Angie McCarthy and McCarthy Wealth Strategies, financial empowerment is within reach.

Angie McCarthy
4160 24th Ave S Suite 100
Fargo, ND 58104
Phone: 701.364.5640
ameripriseadvisors.com/angie.m.mccarthy/

10. Jason Bedford

Introducing Jason Bedford, a dedicated Financial Advisor holding the esteemed designations of CFP®, BFA™, and APMA™. Operating within Legacy Financial Partners, an esteemed private wealth advisory practice under Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, Jason’s mission centers around helping you achieve your distinct financial ambitions.

With a profound understanding that clients’ financial goals are deeply personal, Jason invests time in comprehending what truly matters to them. Whether it involves saving for education, shaping a retirement lifestyle, making prudent investment decisions, or addressing various financial endeavors, Jason offers personalized financial guidance tailored to every client’s needs.

Recognizing the importance of safeguarding the client’s legacy, Jason employs the exclusive Confident Retirement® approach to recommend well-balanced and personalized asset and risk management strategies. Through collaborative efforts, Jason crafts services and solutions tailored to match your financial priorities. His comprehensive financial advice, investment strategies, progress meetings, and advanced technology usage collectively empower clients to achieve their financial goals while adapting seamlessly to life’s evolving circumstances.

Jason Bedford
2300 13th Ave SSte B
Fargo,  ND  58103-3700
Phone: 701.232.8886
ameripriseadvisors.com/Jason.Bedford/

Note

The team providing this top ten financial advisors in Fargo list believes smart people make smart decisions because they educate themselves on the choices they are preparing to make.

We hope we’ve helped you become smarter about choosing a financial advisor that meets your unique and specific needs.

We try to provide readers with up-to-date information that will help them make those good decisions for hiring financial advisors in Fargo. We hope you’ve enjoyed reading the information we’ve provided and learned about some of the choices for Financial Advisors in the Fargo area.

No content is intended to constitute professional advice. This content is not responsible or liable for any consequences relating directly or indirectly to any action you take or fail to take based on the information provided. It is very important to do your own analysis, based on your own personal circumstances, before making any investment.

Consult with your own investment, financial, tax, and legal advisers. Readers agree to indemnify and hold harmless the providers of this information, from and against any and all liability, losses, claims, demands, disputes, damages, or costs of any kind.

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